Conference Center Task Force update

1/16/2015

By Dr. Hal Brady, Conference Center Task Force chairman

Even though we in the South Georgia Conference did not meet the challenge gift goal of raising $330,000 by Dec. 15, 2014, there is still much about which to rejoice. Since the challenge gift was extended in October, $13,225 was raised, which represents 15 donations, and we are most grateful for those gifts. Another benefit of the challenge gift is that it raised the visibility of the new conference center throughout our Annual Conference.

Let me bring you up to date. There are two sources of income for this project: gifts and pledges, which total $661,361.88 as of Dec. 12, 2014, and the Conference Trustee account funds, which currently total $631,336.47 (as of May 5, 3014). Total finances to date are $1,292,698.35.

The Trustee account funds are currently held in certificates of deposit. They earned $11,600 in the second and third quarters of 2014, so the end of the third quarter, according to our Conference Financial Officer, the Trustee funds would be $642,946.47. If that occurs, it would bring our total to $1,303,398.35.

When I recently wrote the Foundation thanking them for this challenge gift opportunity, I asked that they give us future further consideration. Whether they do or not, I reminded them of our resolve to raise the necessary funds to give the South Georgia Conference a home. Our immediate goal is $419,775. Thank you for the privilege of working with you on this part of God's mission.